Prue Leith looks back: ‘I had a great time on Bake Off, but I don’t think I’ll have any yearning when I see Nigella in that position’
The broadcaster, writer and former television judge on being useless at school, how ‘great parents’ instilled her self-confidence, and dealing with sexism
TL;DR
- Prue Leith, born in Cape Town in 1940, has had a multifaceted career as a restaurateur, chef, broadcaster, and writer.
- She founded Leiths School of Food and Wine in 1975 and has authored numerous books.
- Leith served as a judge on Great British Menu and The Great British Bake Off.
- Her parents' encouraging nature and belief in her potential significantly contributed to her self-confidence.
- Despite her successes, she has experienced business failures, including a vegetable importing venture and a picnic food service.
- She reflects on dealing with sexism in the business world, particularly during her time on the British Railways board.
- Leith is not retiring but plans to do more television work, taking time for European holidays and enjoying her home and garden.
- She attributes her continued productivity and upbeat attitude to happiness and always having a project.